June 1 -15, 2016

These are the scripts Joe Benson used on the air at 100.3 The Sound (KSWD) in Los Angeles. They all received final editing by Jan Benson, without whom the task would have been far too daunting. Remember to give credit where credit is due, and enjoy!

June 1, 2016

On this day in 1964, The Rolling Stones arrived at JFK Airport in New York for their first American tour. Their first U.S. gig was a high school dance near Boston. [Trivia note: The Stones' arrived on British Airways flight 505, which two years later inspired their song "505."]

On this day in 1967, The Beatles released one of the most ground-breaking and influential albums in the history of Rock & Roll — "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band." The next day it was unleashed in America.

On this day in 1970, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young began a six-night stand at the Fillmore East in New York, yielding performances that later appeared on the live "Four Way Street" album.

On this day in 1970, Black Sabbath's self-titled debut album was released in the States — eventually topping out at #23 with a million sold and tens of millions of guitarists changing their tunings to a Drop D like Tony Iommi.

On this day in 1972, the Eagles self-titled debut album was released. In short order, the four musicians were rock stars!

On this day in 1974, David Bowie's "Rebel Rebel" single began a short run to #64. "Fame" and major success was still a year away.

On this day in 1975, The Rolling Stones did their first gig with Ronnie Wood as an official member.

On this day in 1985, Heart's "What About Love?" entered the singles charts on its way to #10.

On this day in 2002, Rush's "Vapor Trails" album began its climb to #6.

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Hump Day 6/1/16

Bad Company's Swan Song

Bad Company were the first act signed to Led Zeppelin's record label, Swan Song. But with Bad Company calling their October British tour Swan Song Tour, people are wondering if this will mark the end of the band. True, singer Paul Rodgers and drummer Simon Kirke are still going strong, but guitarist Mick Ralphs sat out the U.S. tour due to health concerns. Now, Ralphs will be on board for the British dates. His temporary replacement — former Black Crowes guitarist Rich Robinson — will continue on the U.S. concert dates. But will Bad Company stop by to see us once again? Stay tuned!

Duff's Story

"It's So Easy And Other Lies: Live At The Moore," an autobiographical music documentary centered on Guns N' Roses bassist Duff McKagan's Seattle gig promoting his first memoir, will have an exclusive L.A. debut this Friday. The film is based on Duff's stage performance combined with animation and interviews with musicians like Slash, Nikki Sixx and Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready.

It was Kin Hubbard who said: "When a fellow says, 'It ain't the money but the principle of the thing,' it's the money."

It was Yogi Berra who said: "If you don't know where you are going, you might wind up someplace else."

It was Mahatma Gandhi who said: "The future depends on what you do today."

It was Robert Plant who said: "Time is vicious — we move too fast to spend time with the people who really matter."

Get Out Of Your Garage Because
Uncle Joe Is Bringing His!

Sunday June 5th, 9am - Noon: Come and hang with yer Uncle Joe at the Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show at the Fairplex in Pomona! Join J.B. at his Meet & Greet with The Sound Crew at the Uncle Joe's Mobile Garage right in the midst of the Classic Car Show! Seriously, it's hard to beat Classic Cars AND Classic Rock, so bring the whole family out to enjoy a great day!

June 2, 2016

Drummer Charlie Watts, the heart & backbeat of The Rolling Stones, is 75.

On this day in 1973, Paul McCartney & Wings' "Red Rose Speedway" album and his "My Love" single hit #1 as Elton John's "Daniel" peaked at #2.

On this day in 1984, Van Halen's "I'll Wait" peaked at #13 on the singles charts.

On this day in 1993, U2 briefly became the richest group in rock when they inked a 10-year, six-album, $60 million deal with Island/PLG. The deal included a 25% royalty rate, which would certainly buy a lot of Guinness Stout or Bushmill's whiskey.

On this day in 2008, Bo Diddley, the musical pioneer whose songs melded Rhythm & Blues with Rock & Roll through a distinctive thumping beat, died of heart failure in his Florida home at the age of 79.

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Thursday 6/2/16

This Sunday night at 8pm on 100.3 The Sound of Los Angeles, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of The Police and Joe's brand new conversation with drummer Stewart Copeland. Check out this preview!

The Busiest Axl In The World

Keeping guest vocalist Axl Rose really busy, AC/DC have rescheduled the U.S. dates they postponed due to singer Brian Johnson's hearing issues. First, the Axl version of the Aussie band will finish their European tour on June 15th. Then Mr. Rose (who is still in great voice) will reboot Guns N' Roses' U.S. Stadium tour on June 23rd. Five days after that trek wraps on August 22nd, Axl/AC/DC will return to U.S. stages in North Carolina. If all goes according to plan, they'll finish gigging on September 20th in Philadelphia... and Axl will take a well deserved break.

Randy To The Rescue

Randy Bachman, ex-Guess Who and Bachman-Turner Overdrive guitarist/mastermind, will perform at Fire Aid at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton, Canada on June 29th. All of the proceeds will be donated to the Fort McMurray United Way for the communities of Fort McMurray and Wood Buffalo following the devastating forest fires that recently hit the area.

It was Robert Anthony who said: "Some people drink from the fountain of knowledge, others just gargle."

It was John Huston who, when asked what his key to long life was, said: "Surgery."

It was Maya Angelou who said: "Music was my refuge. I could crawl into the space in between the notes and curl my back to loneliness."

It was Goodman Ace who said: "I keep reading between the lies."

June 3, 2016

Singer Ian Hunter of Mott The Hoople is 77.Byrds drummer Michael Clarke would have been 69.Lynyrd Skynyrd keyboardist Billy Powell would have been 64.

On this day in 1964, when Ringo Starr collapsed with tonsillitis on the eve of a world tour, Beatles' manager Brian Epstein and producer George Martin picked session man Jimmy Nicol to become The Fab Four's temporary drummer. Ten days later, Jimmy returned to obscurity.

On this day in 1967, The Doors released "Light My Fire," which soon became their first #1 hit single.

On this day in 1970, Ray Davies of The Kinks flew back to London from New York to rerecord two words in the song "Lola." He changed "Coca-Cola" to "cherry cola" to qualify for airplay on Britain's noncommercial BBC radio. Why he couldn't record those words in New York and send the tape to England has never been answered

On this day in 1972, "Old Man" by Neil Young peaked at #31 on the singles charts as Jethro Tull's "Thick As A Brick" album hit #1 for the first of two weeks.

On this day in 1979, The Knack released their debut album, "Get The Knack," one year to the day after playing their first gig. It was certified a million-seller 13 days later.

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Friday 6/3/16

Eric & The Stones

We all know that The Rolling Stones have been recording their first new studio album — mainly a series of blues covers — since 2005's "A Bigger Bang." But word is that their old buddy, Eric Clapton, was in the studio next to them, so he stopped by to say hello... and they ended up jamming and recording two new songs! Now Clapton, who recently released his own new studio album, "I Still Do," has been invited to join The Stones again when they go back in the studio later this month. Can you imagine?!?

The Dan Do The Beacon

With the Allman Brothers Band on the Peakin' At The Beacon sidelines, Steely Dan has scheduled a 10-date run at New York's Beacon Theatre in October. And once again, Donald Fagen and Walter Becker will feature a different show each night. They'll do a fan-based setlist show, greatest hits concerts, and full albums including 1976's "The Royal Scam," 1977's "Aja," 1980's "Gaucho" and — for the first time — 1973's "Countdown To Ecstasy." But if you can't make it to the Beacon, you can still catch the Dan at the Hollywood Bowl on June 18th!

It was Oscar Wilde who said: "I am not young enough to know everything."

It was Malcolm S. Forbes who said: "Too many people overvalue what they are not and undervalue what they are."

It was Joseph LeDoux who said: "People don't come preassembled, but are glued together by life."

It was David Starr Jordan who said: "Wisdom is knowing what to do next; virtue is doing it."

Get Out Of Your Garage Because
Uncle Joe Is Bringing His!

Sunday June 5th, 9am - Noon: Come and hang with yer Uncle Joe at the Pomona Swap Meet & Classic Car Show at the Fairplex in Pomona! Join J.B. at his Meet & Greet with The Sound Crew at the Uncle Joe's Mobile Garage right in the midst of the Classic Car Show! Seriously, it's hard to beat Classic Cars AND Classic Rock, so bring the whole family out to enjoy a great day!

June 4, 2016

On this day in 1969, The Beatles released the song "The Ballad Of John And Yoko." Actually recorded by just John Lennon and Paul McCartney, it eventually hit #8 on the singles charts.

On this day in 1977, Supertramp's "Give A Little Bit" began its climb to #15 as "Mainstreet" by Bob Seger peaked at #24 on the singles charts.

On this day in 1983, Stevie Nicks released her "Stand Back" single (which soon peaked at #5) as David Bowie's "China Girl" entered the charts on its way to #10 and The Police's "Every Breath You Take" began its run to eight weeks at #1.

On this day in 1986, the first date of the "Conspiracy of Hope" concert tour (to benefit Amnesty International) took place at San Francisco's Cow Palace. The ground breaking tour, which played the Forum here in the Southland, included Bryan Adams, Peter Gabriel, Sting and U2 on the bill.

On this day in 1988, Aerosmith's "Rag Doll" began its climb to #17 on the singles charts.

June 5, 2016

On this day in 1965, The Rolling Stones released the song "Satisfaction" in the U.S. just three weeks after recording it in a 30-minute session at RCA Studios in Hollywood. In the process of becoming the biggest song of the Sixties, it spent four weeks at #1.

On this day in 1968, Senator Robert Kennedy was shot and killed in Los Angeles. That evening, David Crosby wrote "Long Time Gone," then Crosby, Stills & Nash immediately recorded it. The next day, The Rolling Stones included the lyric "...who killed the Kennedys..." as they recorded "Sympathy for the Devil."

On this day in 1971, while selling three million copies, Jethro Tull's "Aqualung" hit #7 on the album charts just as The Door's "L.A. Woman" LP peaked at #9.

On this day in 1976, The Rolling Stones' "Fool To Cry" hit #10, "Rhiannon" by Fleetwood Mac topped out at #11 and Heart's "Crazy On You" peaked at #35 on the singles charts. Whew!

On this day in 1976, Santana's "Amigos" album peaked at #10 on the charts.

On this day in 1983, U2 played on a rainy evening at Red Rocks Amphitheater near Denver. A recording of the show was eventually released as the excellent "U2 Live At Red Rocks: Under A Blood Red Sky," setting the band up for their big American breakthrough.

On this day in 1990, Steely Dan's original drummer, Jim Hodder drowned in his swimming pool at the age of 42.

On this day in 1993, Aerosmith's "Living On The Edge" peaked at #18 on the singles charts.

On this day in 1997, Ronnie Lane, Small Faces/The Faces bassist and owner of one of the first significant mobile recording studios, died at the age of 51 after a 20-year battle with multiple sclerosis.

On this day in 2002, Ramones bassist Dee Dee Ramone (born Douglas Colvin) died of an accidental drug overdose in Los Angeles at the age of 49.

June 6, 2016

Guitar god Steve Vai is 56.

On this day in 1962, The Beatles entered London's Abbey Road Studios to audition for producer George Martin. For recording four songs, including "Love Me Do," the four musicians were paid $12.07 each. But when Martin signed them the following month, the world was changed forever.

On this day in 1966, The Rolling Stones' "Paint It Black" hit #1 on the U.S. singles charts.

On this day 1968, The Rolling Stones reworked the lyrics to "Sympathy For The Devil" to reflect the recent assassination of Robert Kennedy.

On this day in 1969, Rod Stewart signed a contract as a solo artist while he was still the lead singer for The Jeff Beck Group.

On this day in 1970, as "Up Around The Bend" by Creedence Clearwater Revival peaked at #4, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's "Teach Your Children" entered the singles charts on its way to #16.

On this day in 1972, David Bowie released his classic "The Rise & Fall Of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars" album. Though it only charted at #75, its sphere of influence continued to grow for decades.

On this day in 1975, The Rolling Stones released their "Made In The Shade" greatest hits compilation. It soon peaked at #6 on the album charts.

On this day in 1982, over 85,000 packed the Rose Bowl for the Peace Sunday concert that featured, among others, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Stevie Nicks, Jackson Browne and Stevie Wonder. Do you know someone born in April 1983? It took forever to get out of the parking lot that night!

On this day in 1984, though never a singles band, Rush's classic "Tom Sawyer" entered the charts on its way to #44.

On this day in 1987, Genesis became the first group in the history of rock to spend a full year on America's Top 100 singles chart with tracks from just one album. "Invisible Touch" was the album, and the streak began when the album's title song entered the charts on this day in 1986.

On this day in 1987, "Wanted Dead Or Alive" by Bon Jovi peaked at #7 on the singles charts.

On this day in 1989, Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble released their classic "In Step" album. It eventually sold over two million copies while topping out at #33.

On this day in 2002, following an eight-year battle with AIDS, Ratt guitarist Robbin Crosby died of complications from AIDS at the age of 42.

On this day in 2006, keyboardist Billy Preston — who played with The Beatles, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, John Lennon, Al Green, Sly & The Family Stone, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Little Richard and Elton John — died at the age of 59 of kidney failure in Scottsdale, Arizona. Over his career, Billy also recorded and toured extensively with The Rolling Stones, and wrote the Joe Cocker classic "You Are So Beautiful." He was indeed a musician's musician.

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Monday 6/6/16

Johnson's Hearing Again!

Good news! A few weeks after severe hearing issues forced AC/DC singer Brian Johnson's departure from the Aussie's Rock Or Bust tour, Johnson finally met with Stephen Ambrose, the creator of the wireless in-ear monitors performers now wear religiously. Of Ambrose's new ADEL hearing technology, Johnson says, "It works! It just totally works and you can't argue with that. I was really moved and amazed to be able to hear music again like I haven't heard for several years now. I can't wait for it to be miniaturized so I can use it in every situation from normal communication, going out to noisy restaurants, [and] performing live music onstage." For several years, Ambrose has worked with scientists on an improved in-ear monitor that acts like a second, synthetic eardrum that "absorbs only the harmful sound pressures." Rock on, Brian!

It was Muhammad Ali who said: "Don't count the days, make the days count."

It was Muhammad Ali who said: "The man who views the world at 50 the same as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life."

It was Muhammad Ali who said: "Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth."

It was Muhammad Ali who said: "It's just a job. Grass grows, birds fly, waves pound the sand. I beat people up."

It was Muhammad Ali who said: "It isn't the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it's the pebble in your shoe."

June 7, 2016

On this day in 1969, The Who's "Tommy" album entered the U.S. charts on its way to selling over two million copies and charting at #4. On this day one year later, The Who performed "Tommy" in its entirety (for the last time until 1989) at New York's Metropolitan Opera House. No significant damage to the Opera House was reported, but there were more than a few dazed individuals in the audience.

On this day in 1969, Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Bayou Country" hit #7 on the album charts. In addition, it eventually sold over two million copies.

On this day in 1969, Blind Faith debuted with a free concert for over 120,000 fans in London's Hyde Park. After one album and one tour, the "supergroup" — which featured Steve Winwood and Eric Clapton — split up a few months later.

On this day in 1975, Elton John's "Captain Fantastic And The Brown Dirt Cowboy" album debuted on the U.S. charts at #1 — the first time an album entered the chart at the top spot. It eventually spent seven weeks on top of the charts while selling over three million copies.

On this day in 1980, The Pretenders' rocking debut album, "Pretenders," topped out at #9 and eventually sold over a million copies.

On this day in 1994, Boston released their fourth album, "Walk On." Two weeks later, it peaked at #7 on the charts.

On this day in 1997, the Foo Fighter's third album, "The Colour And The Shape," entered the charts at #10. "Everlong" and "My Hero" from the album eventually became two of 1997's most played songs on the radio.

On this day in 2012, Bob Welch, Fleetwood Mac's lead guitarist/vocalist from 1971 to 1974, died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound in his Nashville home. The 65-year-old had been dealing with health issues for several months.

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Tuesday 6/7/16

Crossroads Triple-CD

Eric Clapton hosted and organized the Crossroads Guitar Festival in various U.S. cities in 2004, 2007, 2010 and 2013. The star-studded music extravaganzas raised money for his Crossroads Centre rehab facility in Antigua, but — due to contractual dealings — the majority of the music was never released. Now, with all of the licensing in order, the new "Crossroads Revisited: Selections From The Crossroads Guitar Festival" three-CD compilation, featuring highlights from those events, will finally be released on July 1st. Among the many stars appearing on the anthology's 41 tracks (including four hours of previously unreleased performances) are John Mayer, Carlos Santana, Jeff Beck, Steve Winwood, ZZ Top and occasional Eagle Joe Walsh.

It was Mark Twain who said: "Sometimes I wonder whether the world is being run by smart people who are putting us on or by imbeciles who really mean it."

It was Zig Ziglar who said: "It's not what you know, it's what you use that makes a difference."

It was Johnny Carson who said: "If life were fair, Elvis would be alive and all the impersonators would be dead."

It was Eleanor Roosevelt who said: "Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart."

June 8, 2016

Crooner Boz Scaggs is 72.

On this day in 1968, The Rolling Stones released the "Jumpin' Jack Flash" single. After spending three weeks at #3 on the charts, it became one of their most popular songs live. The lyrics were inspired by Keith Richards' gardener, Jack Dyer, who had a medicinal habit that caused him to jump about (or so they say).

On this day in 1969, guitarist Brian Jones (a psychedelicized victim of the Sixties) was fired from The Rolling Stones, the band he helped form seven years earlier. Of course, on this day in 1969 Brian Jones didn't really know what day it was or where he was. And a couple of weeks later, he was dead.

On this day in 1974, Paul McCartney & Wings' "Band On The Run" hit #1 on the U.S. singles chart.

On this day in 1974, Yes keyboardist Rick Wakeman left the band (for the first time) to pursue a solo career.

On this day in 1985, Dire Straits' blockbuster "Brothers In Arms" album entered the charts on its way to nine weeks at #1.

On this day in 1985, Sting's first solo hit, "If You Love Somebody Set Them Free," entered the singles charts on its way to three weeks at #3.

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Hump Day 6/8/16

This Sunday night at 8pm on 100.3 The Sound of Los Angeles, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers as well as conversation with Tom. Check out this preview!

It was Duke Ellington who said: "There's only two kinds of music, good music and the other kind."

It was Laurence J. Peter who said: "History repeats itself because nobody listens."

It was Plato who said: "Of all the animals, the boy is the most unmanageable."

It was D.H. Lawrence who said: "Be still when you have nothing to say; when genuine passion moves you, say what you've got to say, and say it hot."

June 9, 2016

Les Paul, guitar god and major inventor, would have been 101.

Former Deep Purple/Whitesnake keyboardist Jon Lord would have been 75.

Jimi Hendrix's drummer, Mitch Mitchell, would have been 68.

Bassist Trevor Bolder, of David Bowie's Spiders From Mars, would have been 66.

Gregg Bissonette, drummer for everyone from Ringo Starr to Santana to Joe Satriani to Don Henley and David Lee Roth, is 57.

On this day in 1973, "You Can't Always Get What You Want" by The Rolling Stones peaked at #42 on the singles charts.

On this day in 1977, George and Patti Harrison (the inspiration for The Beatles "Something") were granted a divorce. Soon after, she married George's best friend, Eric Clapton — who had written the song "Layla" for her seven years earlier.

On this day in 1979, "Renegade" by Styx topped out at #16 on the singles charts.

On this day in 1984, "Oh Sherrie" by Steve Perry of Journey peaked at #3 on the singles charts.

On this day in 1987, over 20 guitar legends packed New York's Hard Rock Cafe to celebrate the 72nd birthday of guitar pioneer Les Paul. Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page and Rick Derringer were among the attendees who jammed on stage. Regrettably, a recording of the event was never released.

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Thursday 6/9/16

Trump's Stealin' Music

How could anyone be surprised by this? After clinching the final round of Republican primaries, Donald Trump walked onstage for his victory speech accompanied by Queen's "We Are the Champions." And, of course, permission to use that song had neither been sought nor given. As expected, Queen guitarist Brian May issued a stern denouncement of the usage of the song. Among other things, Brian said, "Regardless of our views on Mr. Trump's platform, it has always been against our policy to allow Queen music to be used as a political campaigning tool."

Big CCR Sales

Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Chronicle: 20 Greatest Hits" compilation has now sold over 10 million copies! This makes "Chronicle" the biggest selling album of CCR's career. Their 1970 album, "Cosmo's Factory," is certified for sales of over four million while 1969's "Green River" had sold over three million. Rock & Roll!

All Hail Jeff

Guitar god Jeff Beck will be honored at the 2016 Classic Rock Awards on November 11th. This year's rockin' ceremony — taking place in Tokyo — will also feature Cheap Trick as well as Richie Sambora with Orianthi.

It was Henry Ford who said: "Before everything else, getting ready is the secret of success."

It was Albert Einstein who said: "Common sense is the collection of prejudices acquired by age 18."

Though similar sayings have been around since the 17th Century, it was J. K. Rowling who said (in "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire"): "If you want to see the true measure of a man, watch how he treats his inferiors, not his equals."

It was William Arthur Ward who said: "The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails."

June 10, 2016

Blues legend Howlin' Wolf would have been 107.

On this day in 1964, The Rolling Stones met two of their idols during a recording session at Chicago's Chess Studios when bluesmen Willie Dixon and Muddy Waters stopped by to see if anything was going on.

On this day in 1969, John Lennon and Yoko Ono wrote and recorded "Give Peace A Chance" during their honeymoon bed-in for peace in room #1742 of the Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montreal.

On this day in 1978, Eddie Money's "Baby Hold On" peaked at #11 on the singles charts as "Deacon Blues" by Steely Dan topped out at #19.

On this day in 1978, Joe Walsh's "Life's Been Good" entered the singles charts on its way to #12 as Bruce Springsteen's "Prove It All Night" began its climb to #33.

On this day in 1978, Cheap Trick's "Heaven Tonight" entered the album charts on its way to #48 as Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers' "You're Gonna Get It!" began its climb to #23. Cheap Trick's big breakthrough was eight months away; Tom Petty's a year-and-a-half.

On this day in 2004, legendary singer Ray Charles died at his Beverly Hills home from complications due to liver disease. The Albany, Georgia native lost his sight by age 7, but went on to become an accomplished musician, winning 13 GRAMMY awards over the course of his long career. Charles influenced countless artists and was one of the first inductees to enter the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame. He was only 73.

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Friday 6/10/16

It was Dorothy Parker who said: "If you want to know what God thinks of money, just look at the people he gave it to."

It was Ingrid Bergman who said: "Happiness is good health and a bad memory."

It was Dave Barry who said: "You can only be young once. But you can always be immature."

It was Herbert Agar who said: "The truth that makes men free is for the most part the truth which men prefer not to hear."

June 11, 2016

Drummer Frank Beard (the only member of ZZ Top without a beard) is 67.
Singer Donnie Van Zandt of 38 Special is 64.

On this day in 1966, The Rolling Stones' song "Paint It Black" began a two-week run at #1 in the States just as The Beatles' "Paperback Writer" backed with "Rain" was entering the charts on its way to two weeks at #1.

On this day in 1968, Paul McCartney recorded "Blackbird" in Abbey Road's studio 2 as John Lennon worked on "Revolution 9" in the smaller studio 3.

On this day in 1969, David Bowie re-released his "Space Oddity" single to cash in on the Apollo 11 lunar landing. Though it eventually peaked at #15 Stateside, fame and fortune were still a few years away.

On this day in 1977, "Telephone Line" by E.L.O. began its run to #7 just as Def Leppard's "Rock Of Ages" entered the singles charts on its way to #16.

On this day in 1983, Bryan Adams' "Cuts Like A Knife" entered the singles charts on its way to #15.

June 12, 2016

Singer Brad Delp of Boston would have been 65.
Drummer Bun E. Carlos of Cheap Trick is 64.
Bassist Pete Farndon of The Pretenders would have been 64.
Ace blues guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd is 39.

On this day in 1963, The Beach Boys recorded "Little Deuce Coupe" and "Surfer Girl."

On this day in 1965, The Beatles were awarded the M.B.E., "Most Excellent Order Of The British Empire."

On this day in 1965, The Rolling Stones' "Satisfaction" entered the American charts exactly one month after they recorded it in a 30-minute session at RCA Studios in Hollywood. In the process of becoming the biggest song of the Sixties, it would spend four weeks at #1.

On this day in 1976, Aerosmith's "Last Child" entered the singles charts on its way to #21.

On this day in 1982, over 750,000 saw Bruce Springsteen, Jackson Browne, James Taylor and Linda Ronstadt play at the first No Nukes concert in New York's Central Park.

On this day in 1982, REO Speedwagon's "Keep The Fire Burnin'" began its run to #7 on the singles charts as The Clash's "Combat Rock" entered the album charts. A full six months later, "Combat Rock" would peak at #7.

On this day in 1998, John Fogerty canceled the first date of his U.S. tour (in Chicago) because it conflicted with Game 5 of the NBA Finals (Chicago Bulls vs. Utah Jazz) and he knew everyone wanted to see the game.

On this day in 2002, Sir Paul McCartney and former model Heather Mills married in Ireland.

June 13, 2016

Original Heart guitarist Howard Leese is 65.

On this day in 1958, Frank Zappa graduated from Antelope Valley High School in Lancaster, California.

On this day in 1969, former John Mayall guitarist Mick Taylor officially replaced Brian Jones in The Rolling Stones.

On this day in 1970, The Beatles hit #1 for the last time with Paul McCartney's "The Long And Winding Road" on the singles charts and "Let It Be" on the album charts.

On this day in 1975, Peter Frampton played the first of two nights at the Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco. Months later, recordings from those two shows were used for most of his #1 charting, multi-million selling double album "Frampton Comes Alive."

On this day in 1981, Van Halen's "Fair Warning" album hit #5 on the charts.

On this day in 1981, "The Waiting" by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers peaked at #19 on the singles charts just as REO Speedwagon's "Don't Let Him Go" began its climb to #24.

On this day in 1982, Van Halen's "Diver Down" album began its climb to three weeks at #3 on the charts.

On this day in 1983, Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble released their debut album, "Texas Flood." It soon hit #38 and eventually sold over two million copies. The entire album was recorded in three quick days in Jackson Browne's L.A. studio, with Stevie playing through a borrowed amp. His genius would not be denied!

On this day in 1987, U2's "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" entered the charts on its way to a two-week run at #1.

On this day in 1987, Heart's "Bad Animals" entered the album charts on its way to a three-week run at #2 just as Motley Crue's "Girls, Girls, Girls" album began its climb to #2.

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Monday 6/13/16

Sir Roddy

From now on, it is Sir Roddy! Queen Elizabeth II has knighted Rod Stewart as part of the U.K. monarch's annual Birthday Honors List. The two-time Rock & Roll Hall Of Famer is being recognized "for services to the music and charity" — and contributing tons of British pounds into the Kingdom's coffers! Other British music stars knighted over the past few years include Paul McCartney, Elton John, Mick Jagger, Tom Jones and Van Morrison.

It was Maya Angelou who said: "Nothing will work unless you do."

It was Abraham Lincoln who said: "I like to see a man proud of a place in which he lives, and I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him."

It was Oscar Wilde who said: "Work is the curse of the drinking classes."

It was Katherine Whitehorn who said: "The easiest way for your children to learn about money is for you not to have any."

June 14, 2016

Keyboardist Rod Argent of The Zombies and Argent is 71.
Drummer Alan White of Yes is 67.

On this day in 1965 at Abbey Road Studios in London, Paul McCartney recorded "Yesterday" without any help from the other Beatles.

On this day in 1969, The Beatles topped the British charts with their first stereo single, "The Ballad Of John And Yoko." Ironically, only Paul McCartney and John Lennon played on the song.

On this day in 1970, The Beatles' "Let It Be" album hit #1 for the first of four weeks.

On this day in 1975, Aerosmith's classic "Sweet Emotion" entered the singles charts on its way to #36 as Paul McCartney's "Venus And Mars" album began its run to #1.

On this day in 1981, Bruce Springsteen was the surprise guest at the No Nukes concert at the Hollywood Bowl. Like its Central Park counterpart two days earlier, there were many stars who performed, including Jackson Browne, Graham Nash, Stephen Stills and Bonnie Raitt.

On this day in 2005, a life-sized chocolate statue of Elton John was unveiled in London. It had been commissioned by the Cadbury company as part of the chocolatier's 100th anniversary celebration. Please supply your own punch line here.

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Tuesday 6/14/16

Eric's Wearing Out

Behind the scenes, Eric Clapton's life has become painful. Word is that "Slowhand" is suffering from peripheral neuropathy, which gives him the feeling of "electric shocks going down [his] leg." Over the last few years, the 71-year-old has mentioned several times that he suffers from "posture problems from playing heavy electric guitars on stage," and tendinitis in his arm, neck and shoulder from over 60 years of guitar playing. Be well, Eric!

Big Mac For Vinny

Surprise! Fleetwood Mac is actually going to do a show this year. Dodger Stadium is the venue, July 28th is the date and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation's annual Blue Diamond Gala is the cause. But it gets better: this year's honoree will be Vin Scully, who is retiring at the end of the season after 67 years of calling Dodgers games.

It was comedic genius Jack Benny who said: "I really don't deserve this award. But I have arthritis, and I don't deserve that either."

It was Charles R. Swindoll who said: "The difference between something good and something great is attention to detail."

It was Winston Churchill who said: "Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen."

It was Vladimir Nabokov who said: "Curiosity is insubordination in its purest form."

June 15, 2016

On this day in 1956, John Lennon first met Paul McCartney at a church dinner in Liverpool, England. He soon invited Macca to join his group The Quarrymen.

On this day in 1966, Capitol Records released The Beatles "Yesterday & Today" album, featuring the band wearing butcher's aprons on the front cover surrounded by decapitated baby dolls. Paul McCartney later said it was the Fab Four's comment on the American record label's mishandling of the music. But when Capitol quickly withdrew the sleeve, it became one of the most valued of all Beatles collectibles.

On this day in 1970, Jimi Hendrix held his first session at his long overdue, way over budget Electric Lady Studio in New York.

On this day in 1985, driven by the song "Little By Little," Robert Plant's "Shaken 'N' Stirred" album began its climb to #20.

On this day in 1987, the photo shoot for the cover of Pink Floyd's "A Momentary Lapse Of Reason" took place in Saunton Sands, England. The project included 800 rented beds, which 30 hired hands arranged (and re-arranged and re-arranged) on the beach for the image.

On this day in 2014, legendary radio personality Casey Kasem lost his long battle with Lewy body dementia, an illness that resembles Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The 82-year-old was best known as the voice of his American Top 40 program which aired on thousands of radio stations from 1970 to 2009. His best known voiceover performances were as Shaggy in the original "Scooby Doo, Where Are You!" cartoon series. Our favorite Casey-ism was his signature sign-off at the end of each of his shows: "Keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars."

The Uncle Joe Show Menu

Hump Day 6/15/16

This Sunday night at 8pm on 100.3 The Sound of Los Angeles, OFF THE RECORD with Joe Benson will feature the music of Toto, Jackson Browne, Don Henley, Eric Clapton and as well as more of Joe's conversations with guitarist Steve Lukather. Check out this preview!

Zep In Court

After years of legal maneuvering, a lawsuit filed on behalf of deceased Spirit founder Randy California against Led Zeppelin co-founders Jimmy Page and Robert Plant is finally being heard in court. Jimmy and Robert are actually in town for the trial to determine whether the opening instrumental section of "Stairway To Heaven" was taken from the Southern California group's song "Taurus." Zep bassist/keyboardist John Paul Jones isn't named in the suit, but is expected to testify as a witness. With the eight-person jury (four men and four women) selected yesterday, the trial will proceed today. One question that probably won't get answered is why it took 40 years to file suit over the song?

McCullough R.I.P.

Following years of poor health, Wings guitarist Henry McCullough died yesterday at the age of 72. The only Irishman to perform at the Woodstock Festival (with Joe Cocker's Grease Band), Henry famously joined Paul McCartney's Wings just in time to tour England in a van. His work on the following "Red Rose Speedway" album, especially his blazing guitar solo on the #1 hit "My Love," was held in high regard, as was his work on Paul's "Live And Let Die" from the James Bond film of the same name. But McCullough quit the band just before McCartney made the "Band On The Run" album, and to this day is best known for his ad lib at the end of Pink Floyd's "Money" on "The Dark Side of the Moon." Yes, it was Henry McCullough who said, "I don't know. I was really drunk at the time." Rest in peace, music man.

It was Coach John Wooden who said: "Practice doesn't make perfect; perfect practice does."

It was Duke Ellington who said: "There is no art without intention."

It was Harry Emerson Fosdick who said: "The world is moving so fast these days that the man who says it can't be done is generally interrupted by someone doing it."